The team of 27-year-old Armenian midfielder Artur Zakaryan — Stade Briochin — has secured promotion ahead of schedule, becoming the winner of Group B in the fourth division of the French Championship (Championnat National 2).
After 28 rounds, the club from Saint-Brieuc had collected 56 points and, with two matches remaining, became unreachable for their closest rivals. Thus, Stade Briochin will compete in the third division of France (Championnat National) next season.
Artur Zakaryan played a crucial role in this achievement. The Armenian midfielder became the team’s top assist provider with 7 assists and also scored 7 goals — the third-best result among all players on the team. Moreover, Zakaryan was the engine of Stade Briochin and did not miss a single match this season.
The club’s successful run extended beyond the league. Stade Briochin also impressed in the Coupe de France, reaching the quarterfinal stage. There, Zakaryan’s team faced the formidable Paris Saint-Germain. Unfortunately, the encounter ended in a heavy 0–7 defeat, but along the way, Stade Briochin eliminated such opponents as Nice, Annecy, and Le Havre.
This has undoubtedly been the best season of Artur Zakaryan’s career. Just a year ago, he was playing in the fifth division, but he quickly adapted to the higher level and became a key player for Stade Briochin. Next season will be his debut at the Championnat National level.